"They're desperate for him! Bayern set to hold talks with England star" | OneFootball

Bayern Munich’s defensive planning for the coming season is taking concrete shape—and one name tops the list: Marc Guéhi. The England international from Crystal Palace is considered Bayern’s preferred target. As has now become known, one person in particular is driving the deal behind the scenes.

On the Bayern Insider podcast, Christian Falk revealed: “That is true. Christoph Freund is the key man in the poker over Marc Guéhi. Bayern want him badly.”

The 25-year-old has established himself as one of the most reliable center-backs in the Premier League. His composure on the ball, positional play, and leadership qualities make him especially attractive to Munich—particularly because Dayot Upamecano’s future remains uncertain.

Talks possible from January: Freund takes the wheel

Photo: Getty Images

Guéhi is under contract at Crystal Palace only until summer 2026, which would make him a free agent next year. From January 1, 2026, Bayern may officially negotiate with him or his management. Falk emphasizes: “From January 1 you can talk, he’s a free agent. And Bayern will clearly try to pounce.”

This would allow the German record champions to proactively address a potential gap in defense—regardless of whether Upamecano extends or not.

But the poker is tough. Real Madrid and Liverpool are also said to be interested in Guéhi. Tobi Altschäffl added: “Big clubs like Real Madrid and Liverpool are in the mix as well; there have even already been conversations. It won’t be an easy deal.”

Unlike previous transfer windows, Christoph Freund is expected to take the lead in the entire Guéhi pursuit this time. Falk: “Freund is the decisive man. He has the contacts, and he’ll try to set it up through his channels.”

The sporting director is also expected to leverage his close connection to Glasner—the two know each other from their time in the Austrian Bundesliga.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.